GNM India Desk | October 8, 2026
Veteran actor Nana Patekar, one of the most distinctive performers in Hindi and Marathi cinema, died on Thursday at the age of 75. He died in Goa after suffering a cardiac arrest, according to reports.
The actor’s death prompted tributes from across India’s political and film circles. Prime Minister Narendra Modi remembered Patekar for his intensity, individuality, versatility and contribution to Hindi and Marathi cinema.
PM Modi pays tribute to Nana Patekar
In a post on X, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that few actors possessed the “intensity, individuality and unmistakable presence” that Nana Patekar brought to his performances.
Modi praised Patekar’s versatility and creativity, saying the characters he created would be remembered for generations. He also recalled the actor’s frank and forthright nature.
The Prime Minister described Patekar’s contribution to Hindi and Marathi cinema as immense, adding that his passing had left a deep void. He extended condolences to Patekar’s family, friends and admirers.
Nana Patekar dies in Goa at 75
Patekar was reportedly found unconscious at his residence in Dona Paula, Goa, on Thursday morning and was taken to Manipal Hospital.
Doctors attempted to revive him, but he could not be saved. Reports said he died following cardiac arrest.
Further procedural details, including the post-mortem, were to be handled by the authorities.
His recent remarks about mortality resurface
Following news of his death, a video from one of Patekar’s recent public appearances began circulating widely on social media.
In the video, the actor is heard saying:
“I don’t know whether I will be here tomorrow or not.”
The remark has received renewed attention following his death.
However, the statement was made in the context of a wider discussion about life and mortality. It should not be presented as a prediction of his death.
A career spanning nearly five decades
Patekar began his journey through theatre and Marathi cinema before becoming one of Hindi cinema’s most recognisable character actors.
He delivered acclaimed performances in films including Parinda, Prahaar, Krantiveer, Agni Sakshi, Tiranga, Ab Tak Chhappan and Welcome.
His performance in Krantiveer earned him the National Film Award for Best Actor, while he received further national recognition for his work in cinema. He was also honoured with the Padma Shri in 2013.
His Marathi work, particularly Natsamrat, further established his standing across regional and national cinema.
More than an actor
Patekar’s contribution extended beyond acting. He worked in theatre and also directed films, while remaining associated with social causes.
His career moved between serious cinema, theatre and mainstream Bollywood without losing the distinctive intensity that became his signature.
From socially conscious performances to popular commercial characters such as Uday Shetty in Welcome, Patekar demonstrated a range that connected multiple generations of Indian audiences.
Tributes pour in
Following his death, tributes came from political leaders, actors, filmmakers and audiences across India.
For Indian cinema, Patekar leaves behind a career that bridged Marathi theatre, regional cinema and mainstream Hindi films.
His performances, distinctive voice and powerful screen presence made him one of the most recognisable actors of his generation.
Nana Patekar was 75.
GNM LIVE UPDATES
10:05 IST: PM Modi pays tribute to Nana Patekar, recalling his contribution to Hindi and Marathi cinema.
10:03 IST: Nana Patekar’s recent remarks about mortality resurface online following his death.
Latest: Veteran actor Nana Patekar dies at 75 in Goa following cardiac arrest.
More updates: Tributes continue to come in from India’s political and film circles.
